GRACE AT HOME STUDY GUIDE

What is a Healthy Church Part 3

In our exploration of what constitutes a healthy church, we're reminded of the incredible, divine choice God makes in using us — frail and imperfect — to fulfill His purposes. Despite our weaknesses and struggles, God achieves victories through us, which is both humbling and inspiring. The teachings and endurance of leaders like Dr. John MacArthur illustrate the importance of faithfulness to scripture as a foundation for lasting ministry. Through centuries, steadfast commitment to the Word has guided the church, serving as a reminder that our health as a church is contingent on our connection to Christ, the true vine. We're encouraged to remember that a healthy church is like a healthy body; if compromised, it becomes vulnerable to hardship and decline. Yet, God has given us everything that pertains to life and godliness, ensuring we do not rely on our flesh but on His divine power and wisdom. As we strive for godly growth, we must prioritize holiness and immerse ourselves in the scriptures, obtaining life, growth, and satisfaction from the word as an infant does from milk. This foundational teaching aligns us with Christ, warning us against superficial tactics that may lead believers astray. Let's embrace godly growth rooted in scripture, seeking true transformation that glorifies God, ensuring our church flourishes in genuine and lasting ways.

Rewatch the Sermon

Small Group Guide

Objective: To facilitate meaningful conversations and reflections on the sermon, focusing on the concept of a healthy church and individual spiritual growth.

Key Takeaways:
  1. Definition of a Healthy Church: A church that remains focused on Christ as the true vine and not distracted by numerical growth or societal trends.
  2. Importance of Holiness and Scripture: Growth in holiness and understanding of the scriptures are essential components of a believer's life and a healthy church.
  3. Role of Pragmatism vs. Gospel-Centeredness: The historical shift towards pragmatism in churches contrasted with the transformative power of a God-centered gospel as seen in past revivals.
  4. Avoiding Spiritual Complacency: Recognizing the danger of spiritual complacency and the need for continual growth and repentance.

Discussion Questions:
  1. Reflecting on the Church:
    • What characteristics do you think define a healthy church?
    • How can we ensure our church remains Christ-centered rather than influenced by societal trends or numerical measures?
  2. Holiness and Personal Growth:
    • What does growth in holiness mean to you? How have you experienced this in your personal life?
    • How can we encourage one another in our small group to pursue holiness?
  3. Understanding and Living Scripture:
    • How can we cultivate a deeper love and understanding of scripture in our daily lives?
    • Share experiences where scripture has directly impacted your life or decision-making.
  4. Pragmatism vs. Proclamation of the Gospel:
    • How can we discern and address pragmatic tendencies in our church or personal ministry?
    • Discuss examples from history or personal experience where a gospel-centered approach led to true transformation.
  5. Response to Correction:
    • How do you typically respond to correction or rebuke from scripture or fellow believers?
    • What steps can we take to cultivate a humble and teachable heart?

Practical Applications:
  1. Scripture Engagement:
    • Set a goal to read and meditate on a specific book of the Bible in the coming weeks.
    • Share insights and reflections with a partner in the group.
  2. Prayer for Holiness:
    • Incorporate a time of prayer focusing on personal and communal growth in holiness.
    • Pray specifically for areas in your life where you seek transformation.
  3. Encourage One Another:
    • Pair up with a group member and check in with each other weekly to encourage growth in the Word and holiness.
    • Share any challenges and victories you've experienced in these areas.
  4. Community Outreach:
    • Discuss ways the group can engage in community service or outreach that aligns with gospel proclamation and service.
  5. Reflect on Personal Testimonies:
    • Spend time sharing personal testimonies of how God has been working in your lives recently.
    • Emphasize the ways the church community has supported your spiritual growth.

Closing Prayer:
Conclude your small group time with a prayer asking for God’s guidance, wisdom, and strength to pursue holiness and grow in love and knowledge of His Word. Seek His help to be a healthy, Christ-centered community that impacts others with the gospel truth.